The National Police have arrested an Algerian man as the alleged perpetrator of several thefts from travellers in the parking lot of Son Sant Joan airport. He posed as a tourist to go unnoticed.
The National Police have detained a man of Algerian origin in Palma as the alleged author of a theft after reportedly stealing belongings from several tourists in the parking lot of Son Sant Joan airport. According to the investigation, the arrested individual took advantage of the moments when travellers were distracted while checking the vehicle they had just rented.
A very defined criminal pattern
The events began last Sunday when a tourist reported that he had just been robbed. He explained that while he was checking the rental car, someone took a tablet, a backpack, a wallet with documents, 200 euros in cash, and a set of keys for a house located in Part Forana.
After receiving the report, agents from the National Police Station at the Airport initiated an investigation to clarify what had occurred and identify the responsible party. The inquiries allowed them to locate a suspect who already had previous convictions for similar incidents.
With that information, investigators organised a device to locate him within the airport facilities. Last Tuesday, at around 18:45 hours, the agents found him again in the parking lot of Son Sant Joan airport, where he was arrested as the alleged author of a theft.
Modus operandi: going unnoticed among travellers
The investigation revealed that the suspect followed a very defined pattern. He dressed like any traveller to blend in with tourists and mix with them without raising suspicion. His goal was to detect people who were distracted while picking up or checking their rental car, a moment when he took the opportunity to steal their belongings.
According to the National Police, he primarily operated in the airport parking, although he also approached other areas with a high influx of travellers. The quick action of the agents prevented him from committing further thefts.
Tips to avoid thefts at the airport
The National Police reminds airport users of the importance of not losing sight of their belongings, especially in crowded spaces and during moments of distraction, such as when picking up or dropping off a rental vehicle or accessing public transport. The agents insist that constant vigilance over items such as backpacks, bags, documents, or electronic devices can be key to preventing this type of opportunistic theft.
The detainee has been brought before the courts and is charged with theft. The investigation remains open to determine if he is linked to other similar thefts in the area.
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